An expanding role Alan Cameron, chairman of the new Australian Corporations and Financial Services Commission, talks to Graham Field
New York firms seek the world’s business With the globalization of financial services, New York law firms are adapting their approach for a global market. But traditional relationships remain strong. Richard Forster reports
What does the euro mean for you? The legal preparations for the introduction of the euro have moved on. Geoffrey Yeowart of Lovell White Durrant, London, updates the answers given in the January issue to the most frequently asked legal questions
Markets move to agree euro conventions The leading international trade associations have combined to produce market conventions for the euro. They are winning increasing acceptance across Europe. By Clifford R Dammers of the International Primary Market Association, London
Emu opens new opportunities for securitization The introduction of a single currency will provide scope for a stronger Europe-wide securitization market, which should grow from the start of the transition to the euro. By Gilles Thieffry and Jonathan Walsh, Norton Rose, London
The US prepares for European Emu New York and other US states have made substantial preparations for the advent of Emu to ensure continuity of contracts. By Daniel Cunningham and Thomas Werlen of Cravath, Swaine & Moore, New York
Germany prepares for the euro Germany will produce detailed legislation to ensure a smooth transition into the third stage of Emu. It includes specific rules for reference rates and redenomination. By Katrin Kühnle of Hengeler Mueller Weitzel Wirtz, Frankfurt
Spain waits for detailed preparations Spain’s preparations for the single European currency have started by establishing commissions to study the possible response. Continuity of contract seems secure. By Luis García Cruz and Hugh McCairley, Bufete Mullerat & Roca, Barcelona
Existing Swiss doctrines should answer the difficulties The Swiss government has decided that no statutory change is necessary; existing legal doctrines should ensure continuity of contracts. By Martin Anderson and Urs Schenker of Baker & McKenzie, Geneva and Zurich
European Union Commission view on changeover to the euro; Commission acts on harmful tax competition; Consultation on the freedom to provide insurance services
What the client demands As a follow-up to October’s equities survey, International Financial Law Review asked leading managers and issuers what they look for from their lawyers. A merger is one answer. Nick Ferguson reports
Pakistan government relaxes rules on public offers Against the backdrop of greater political stability and improving economic prospects, Pakistan has recently made it easier to float companies. By Mansoor H Khan of Khan & Associates, Lahore